"A cruiser," remarked Captain Brookes, calmly. "Carry on, men; then general quarters."
As he sprang towards the conning-tower the searchlight was switched off and a masthead signalling lamp began to "call up" the motionless Olive Branch.
"Acknowledge," ordered the captain, shortly; and in reply a lamp from the bridge began its succession of rapid short flashes.
"What ship is that?"
"It's no use bluffing them, Tregarthen. I'll show my true colours, and if they've any regard for their own safety they'll sheer off," remarked Captain Brookes, and turning to his signalman he ordered him to reply:—
"The cruiser 'Olive Branch.'"
Almost without a moment's hesitation the intercepting vessel signalled:—
"Is Lieutenant Tregarthen on board?"
"Ha, Mr. Tregarthen, you're promoted, I understand. Allow me to congratulate you," said his temporary "chief."
An affirmative reply having been given, the British cruiser—for British she undoubtedly was—continued:—